Visiting Carlow Castle

The castle is free to view and sits close to Carlow town centre, so it is easy to fit into a short stop.

Where it is

Carlow Castle stands beside the River Barrow, near the town centre, close to where the River Burrin joins it. It is within a short walk of the main streets, so most visitors arrive on foot from wherever they have parked.

Getting there

By car

Carlow is roughly 85 km from Dublin. The castle has no dedicated car park, so use one of the pay-and-display car parks in the town centre and check the signs for charges and time limits.

By public transport

Carlow town has bus and train services, and the castle is a short walk from the centre. Check current timetables with the operators before you travel.

What to expect

• The surviving walls are best seen from outside. Interior access to the remains is limited.
• There are information panels at the site, which cover the history.
• The ground around the castle is generally flat, but it is a historic site, so expect some uneven surfaces and steps.
• It is in a busy part of town, so cars are often parked in front of the ruin. Early morning is usually the best time for photographs.

Making the most of your visit

Pair the castle with a walk along the River Barrow, then continue to the museum, the cathedral and the other sights in the town centre. If you have time, the Brownshill Dolmen is a short drive away.

Safety and respect

This is a protected National Monument. Please do not climb on the walls, and keep to any fenced or signed areas.